1. Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems & Inventory Management: Many Tanzanian retailers and shop owners seek modern POS software to track sales, manage stock, and reduce manual errors. For example, one entrepreneur on JamiiForums wrote “Naomba kujua kama kuna mtu anauza posi ya NMB na CRDB … nazihitaji kwa uharaka sana” – asking if anyone sells NMB/CRDB POS machines because they urgently need them. This highlights the demand for POS solutions that integrate with payments and inventory. Such systems help eliminate manual price tags and give real-time sales reports, which is crucial for retail growth.

1. Accounting & Financial Management Software: Business owners are increasingly adopting software for bookkeeping, invoicing, and tax compliance to replace manual spreadsheets. Widely used tools include QuickBooks, Tally, and local solutions, which help SMEs keep accurate financial records and generate reports. A Tanzanian digital survey noted only ~32% of SMEs had adopted cloud or SaaS solutions – indicating significant room for growth as entrepreneurs realize the efficiency of tools that handle VAT, payroll, and bank reconciliation. Having proper accounting software is seen as a way to improve transparency and access financial insights for better decision-making.
2. Mobile Money Integration & Digital Payments: With mobile money (M-Pesa, TigoPesa, Airtel Money) ubiquitous in Tanzania, businesses want their systems to integrate digital payments. This need spans point-of-sale integrations, e-commerce checkouts, and billing systems that accept mobile payments and card payments. A Visa study found that a “significant majority of Tanzanian SMEs have embraced digital payments within the last two years”, citing benefits like reduced fraud and higher customer convenience. However, many still worry about cash handling risks, underscoring the urgent need for safer digital payment alternatives. Entrepreneurs frequently discuss implementing M-Pesa payment APIs in online shops, and fintech services (like Flutterwave, Nala, etc.) are popular for enabling seamless local and cross-border transactions.
3. E-Commerce Platforms & Online Marketplaces: Tanzanian entrepreneurs across retail and services are looking to sell their products online to reach wider markets. They often ask for affordable ways to set up online stores or join marketplaces. On JamiiForums, it’s noted that “wafanya biashara wengi sana hawana website na wanafikiri kuwa … online store haina umuhimu” – many business owners still lack websites, thinking an online store is not important. This is changing as success stories of online businesses grow. Tools like WooCommerce, Shopify, and local platforms (e.g. Jumia Tanzania) are used, and even Facebook/Instagram shops are common for small vendors. The interest in e-commerce shot up especially after COVID-19, as businesses realized the need for an online sales channel to support growth.
4. Business Websites & Online Presence: Beyond e-commerce, simply having a professional website is a widespread need across sectors – from tourism to consulting – for marketing and credibility. Companies want websites to showcase their services and allow customers to find them online. Discussions in local business communities emphasize the importance of a website in today’s business. Web development services (often by local IT firms or freelancers) are in high demand to create mobile-friendly sites, integrate contact forms, and even basic SEO so that Tanzanian businesses can be discovered globally. A good online presence, including on social media and Google Maps, is increasingly seen as essential for growth in tourism and service industries.
5. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: As competition grows, businesses (especially in services, real estate, and B2B sectors) want better tools to manage leads and customer interactions. CRM systems help track customer inquiries, sales pipelines, and follow-ups, leading to improved customer service. Tanzanian entrepreneurs have shown interest in CRM solutions that are cloud-based and integrate with mobile messaging (for example, sending WhatsApp updates to clients). Widely used CRM tools like Salesforce and HubSpot are known, but many small businesses opt for simpler solutions or even customized CRMs tailored by local developers. The goal is to build lasting customer relationships and intelligently manage marketing campaigns, which is a shift from the more transactional approach of the past.
6. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Solutions: In manufacturing, distribution, and larger enterprises, there is a need for integrated ERP systems that tie together inventory, sales, procurement, and accounting. Tanzanian firms in sectors like manufacturing or large-scale retail have been migrating from siloed systems to all-in-one ERPs (such as SAP Business One, Oracle Netsuite, or Microsoft Dynamics). Even mid-sized companies seek modular ERPs (inventory, finance, HR all in one). One forum discussion highlighted open-source ERP options like SQL-Ledger, noting how a POS module can tie into accounting. Local IT service providers (e.g., Powercomputers, SoftTech) often offer industry-specific ERPs for wholesale trade, agro-processing, etc. The key need is to improve efficiency by having a single source of truth for operations – something more business owners are asking for as they scale up.
7. Supply Chain & Logistics Management: Companies in logistics, distribution, and export are looking for software to manage supply chains – from tracking shipments to managing warehouses and fleets. For instance, a logistics firm might need a fleet management system to GPS-track delivery trucks and schedule maintenance. Likewise, distributors want inventory systems that can automate re-ordering and monitor stock across multiple locations. Tanzanian businesses, especially those involved in import/export or regional trade, have been requesting solutions for route optimization, cargo tracking, and automated notifications to customers. This need is evident in sectors like fast-moving consumer goods and freight forwarding, where timely and efficient delivery is critical to growth. Software that can integrate with barcode scanners, and even the TRA’s import/export systems, is highly valued.
8. Agricultural Tech Solutions (AgriTech): Agriculture remains a backbone of Tanzania’s economy, and farmers and agribusiness entrepreneurs are increasingly seeking tech tools. Key needs include farm management apps (for crop planning, expense tracking), market price information services, weather alert apps, and supply chain platforms connecting farmers to buyers. For example, the government’s M-Kilimo platform allows farmers to get market info via mobile. Entrepreneurs have discussed apps that could “unlock the true potential of Tanzania’s farms” by connecting producers to markets. There’s demand for solutions like produce inventory management for cooperatives, digital payment systems for crop sales, and even drone or IoT solutions for large-scale farms (e.g., soil sensors). Custom software is often requested to handle specific needs like tracking harvests, farm inputs, or processing plant logistics, as off-the-shelf solutions for local crops can be limited.
9. Tourism & Hospitality Booking Systems: With tourism booming in Tanzania (safaris, hotels, tour operators), business owners in this sector need robust booking and management software. Hotels and lodges commonly seek Property Management Systems (PMS) that handle reservations, guest check-in, billing, and now even e-invoicing to comply with tax rules. Tour operators look for platforms to manage client itineraries, online bookings, and payments. One industry report noted Tanzanian hotels’ rapid tech adoption post-COVID, including cloud-based hotel systems and even Virtual Fiscal Devices for e-receipts. For example, Hotelogix, a cloud PMS, showcased Tanzanian hotel groups centralizing operations and complying with TRA e-receipting requirements. This reflects a broader need: tourism businesses want software that improves efficiency, connects them to online travel agents (OTAs), and enhances the guest experience to stay competitive internationally.
10. Human Resource & Payroll Systems: As businesses grow in staff numbers, managing HR and payroll manually becomes inefficient and error-prone. Tanzanian companies are seeking software to handle employee records, leave, performance, and payroll calculations (including local tax and social security deductions). Solutions like Sage Payroll or even locally developed HR systems are in demand. In forums and groups, business owners often ask for recommendations on payroll software that complies with Tanzanian regulations (PAYE, NSSF, etc.) and can generate reports. For example, integrated HR modules in ERPs or standalone services (like kpi.com, which advertises an all-in-one HR, sales, and payroll platform for Tanzania) are pitched to business owners who “still run payroll and HR manually.” Automating these functions frees up time and ensures salaries are paid accurately – a key need for companies scaling their workforce.
11. Communication & Collaboration Tools: With the rise of remote work and distributed teams (and also dealing with clients abroad), businesses are adopting tools for better communication. This includes professional email and calendaring (Office 365 or Google Workspace), video conferencing (Zoom/Teams), and team collaboration platforms (Slack, Microsoft Teams). Tanzanian service companies and NGOs, for instance, often need reliable email hosting and cloud file-sharing to collaborate in real-time. Moreover, as internet access improves, even smaller businesses use WhatsApp or Telegram groups for internal comms but are now transitioning to more structured tools. The need for reliable IT networking and communications support (like setting up company-wide email domains) is frequently mentioned by IT service providers as a common request. In short, to support growth, businesses know they must improve internal coordination and client communication through modern IT services.
12. Cybersecurity Solutions & Services: As companies digitize operations, concerns about data security and cyber threats have grown. Business owners are looking for services like network security audits, anti-malware protection, secure backups, and user training in cybersecurity. High-profile incidents and the rise of cybercrime have not spared Tanzania – hence even SMEs discuss protecting customer data and securing transactions. Only “one in ten Tanzanian CEOs [felt] prepared for a cyber attack” in a recent survey, and many recognize the need to bolster their cyber defenses. In fact, 28% of Tanzanian business leaders now cite cyber risks as a key threat to their business. This has led to increased interest in learning about cybersecurity (see executive priorities below) and in hiring IT services for things like firewalls, encryption of sensitive data (e.g. customer financial info), and secure cloud storage to prevent breaches. Cybersecurity is no longer optional for businesses aiming to scale sustainably in the digital age.
13. Data Analytics & Business Intelligence (BI): With growing volumes of sales, customer, and market data, business owners want tools to derive insights and support data-driven decision making. There’s a rising demand for BI software (like Microsoft Power BI, Tableau) and simple analytics integrations (even Excel-based or Google Data Studio dashboards) that can help answer questions like “Who are my most profitable customers?” or “Which product is selling best in which region?”. CEOs and managers are interested in tracking KPIs on dashboards. For example, a telecom CEO in Tanzania noted that companies integrating AI and analytics are seeing “greater efficiency in work processes” and profit gains. On a smaller scale, even a shop owner using a POS now can see daily sales trends. The need for data analytics spans sectors: agritech platforms analyzing farm yields, tourism businesses analyzing occupancy and reviews, retailers doing sales forecasting, etc. Entrepreneurs are actively asking for custom reports and analytics tools – turning raw data into strategic insight is a service many are willing to pay for.
14. Cloud Computing & Storage Services: As internet infrastructure improves, more businesses in Tanzania are moving to the cloud for scalability and cost-effectiveness. This need includes cloud storage/backup solutions (so that important data is not lost if local computers fail) and cloud servers to host applications or websites. Instead of maintaining on-premise servers, SMEs are showing interest in services like Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, or local cloud providers for hosting their ERPs, websites, or databases. One driver is the flexibility of accessing data from anywhere – important for managers on the move. Also, cloud email and document collaboration (part of item #12 Communication tools) are popular. IT service firms advertise migration to cloud and “Windows Server setup and configuration” for Tanzanian businesses, suggesting many businesses seek guidance on transitioning to modern cloud-based IT environments. The cloud also supports other needs on this list (e.g., cloud-based POS or accounting SaaS), so it underpins much of the digital transformation.
15. Custom Software & Application Development: Off-the-shelf solutions sometimes don’t meet specific local requirements, so entrepreneurs often seek custom software. Requests for tailor-made applications are common – ranging from a custom point-of-sale that prints receipts in Kiswahili to a specialized system for, say, school management or a SACCO (savings co-op) system. Tanzanian developers on forums frequently offer to build solutions and sometimes entrepreneurs post looking for developers. For instance, one JamiiForums user openly offered help to get “software yoyote unayotaka katika kukusaidia kazi/biashara yako” (any software you need to help in your work/business). This indicates that there is an active market for bespoke software. Business owners in sectors like logistics, healthcare, or niche retail might request an app or system unique to their workflow. The need here is having IT solutions adapted to local business models (including language, currency, regulatory quirks) – something big global software might not handle. As a result, custom mobile app development (for customer engagement or internal use) and web system development is a thriving service need in the Tanzanian entrepreneurial scene.
16. Digital Marketing Tools & Services: To grow their customer base, businesses are keen on leveraging digital marketing – this spans social media, search engine visibility, and online advertising. Many entrepreneurs ask for guidance on using Facebook/Instagram ads effectively, bulk SMS campaigns, or WhatsApp Business for customer outreach. There’s also interest in tools that can schedule posts to social media, manage contacts for email newsletters, and analyze online engagement. For example, on JamiiForums, members discuss tips for “kuuza bidhaa mtandaoni” (selling products online) including using social networks and online ads. Small businesses often seek marketing service providers who can build their brand online and run campaigns, as they lack in-house expertise. From tourism operators marketing abroad to local boutiques selling on Instagram, the use of digital marketing tools is a key need to support business growth. The rise of influencers and content marketing in Tanzania also pushes business owners to invest in these digital channels.
17. Project Management & Productivity Tools: As companies take on bigger projects and teams grow, the need for project management software has emerged. Sectors like construction, IT, and consulting look for tools to plan and track projects (e.g., Trello, Asana, Microsoft Project). Even within small teams, tools for task management and time tracking are sought to improve efficiency. A LinkedIn article by a Tanzanian IT consultant categorized business owners, noting some are “excited by shiny new software” but often skip investing in basic tools – highlighting that fundamental productivity tools are sometimes overlooked. However, this is changing: entrepreneurs are now actively asking for solutions to manage workflows and collaborate on documents (Google Docs/Office Online). Coworking spaces in Dar es Salaam and Arusha host workshops on using productivity apps, indicating demand. In summary, whether it’s a simple to-do list app or a full project portfolio management system, Tanzanian businesses increasingly recognize organized project execution as key to growth.
18. Internet Connectivity & IT Infrastructure Support: (Not a software per se, but a crucial IT service need.) Business owners often cite reliable internet as foundational for all digital tools. Many are upgrading to fiber connections or dedicated business internet packages. Along with this, they need network setup, Wi-Fi coverage, and hardware like routers/servers maintained. IT service companies report that SMEs commonly request help setting up networks, securing them, and ensuring minimal downtime. In more remote regions, businesses are interested in solutions like VSAT or mobile internet boosters to stay connected. Additionally, as they implement more software systems, entrepreneurs need ongoing IT support – e.g., maintaining computers, printers, and ensuring data backups. This has led to growth in outsourced IT support services (AMCs – Annual Maintenance Contracts) where a provider handles all tech needs for a monthly fee. In essence, robust IT infrastructure (the “plumbing” behind the software) is a need that Tanzanian businesses are addressing to enable all other digital initiatives.
19. Government e-Services & Compliance Solutions: Tanzanian businesses must comply with various government digital systems – and they need support software/services for this. Key examples include the Tanzania Revenue Authority’s electronic filing and Electronic Fiscal Devices (EFDs) for issuing tax receipts. Business owners frequently need guidance on integrating EFD printers or the newer Virtual Fiscal Device (VFD) API into their sales systems so that every transaction is reported to TRA. In sectors like hospitality, new regulations mandate e-invoices, so hotels and restaurants have had to update their billing software to connect with TRA systems. Similarly, companies need to use government portals for things like social security filings, business licensing, or procurement tenders. Entrepreneurs often ask for help on forums with these platforms, such as how to use the BRELA online business registration or how to file VAT online. Thus, solutions that make compliance easier – whether it’s software that generates compliant reports or services to navigate e-government systems – are very much in demand to avoid penalties and ensure smooth operations.

Sources:

• Real-world user request for POS devices (NMB/CRDB) on JamiiForums; discussion of POS benefits.
• Observation on business owners undervaluing websites/online stores (JamiiForums).
• Visa study on rapid SME adoption of digital payments in Tanzania.
• Hotel industry report on cloud tech adoption & e-invoicing compliance in Tanzanian hotels.
• KPMG/Citizen report on low cyber-attack preparedness (10% of CEOs).
• PwC Tanzania CEO Survey 2025 (The Citizen) on cyber threats and AI adoption by CEOs.
• JamiiForums user offering custom software for any business need.
• KPI.com ad for integrated HR/payroll in TZ, etc.

Executive Priorities: Digital Learning for Tanzanian CEOs

Business leaders in Tanzania recognize that technology is a key driver of future growth. Beyond procuring software, CEOs and top executives are focusing on building their own knowledge in critical digital areas to steer their companies forward. In the coming years, Tanzanian CEOs are most interested in learning about:

• Cybersecurity and Digital Risk Management – With rising cyber threats, executives want to understand how to protect their organizations. Only 1 in 10 Tanzanian CEOs felt truly prepared for a cyber-attack a few years ago, and about 28% now see cyber risks as one of their top threats. This is driving a desire to learn about cybersecurity best practices, data privacy, and risk mitigation strategies at the leadership level. CEOs are investing in cybersecurity awareness training for themselves and their staff, knowing that securing customer data and maintaining trust is paramount for business continuity.
• AI and Machine Learning Literacy – There is surging interest in artificial intelligence as a tool for efficiency and innovation. 52% of Tanzanian CEOs expect AI to boost profitability in the next year, and nearly half plan to embed AI into key processes. Top executives are eager to demystify AI – learning how technologies like machine learning, chatbots, and predictive analytics can optimize operations or create new products. For instance, Vodacom Tanzania’s MD noted that investments in Generative AI have already “led to increased profits and greater efficiency” in some companies. CEOs are taking note and many are enrolling in AI seminars or consulting with tech experts so they can spearhead AI adoption ethically and effectively.
• Data-Driven Decision Making & Analytics – Tanzanian business leaders are focusing on how to leverage data for strategic decisions. According to the recent CEO survey, 81% of CEOs are prioritizing transparency and long-term strategy in major decisions, which includes using data and multiple perspectives to avoid blind spots. This reflects a shift toward data-driven culture. CEOs want to improve their literacy in interpreting analytics dashboards, understanding big data trends, and cultivating a team that bases decisions on evidence rather than gut alone. By learning about business intelligence tools and data analysis techniques, top executives aim to uncover new market insights and respond faster to changes – whether in customer behavior or supply chain efficiency. In practice, this might mean training in KPI development, financial modeling, or even basics of data science so they can ask the right questions of their data teams.
• Agile Innovation and Change Leadership – The fast-changing business landscape has taught CEOs the value of agility and continuous innovation. Many Tanzanian CEOs have “taken action in recent years to adjust their business models due to the pressure to change”, reallocating resources to new opportunities. Top executives are thus keen to learn agile methodologies, design thinking, and change management to drive digital transformation in their organizations. This involves learning how to foster an innovation culture, rapidly prototype new ideas, and manage organizational change with minimal disruption. As one executive noted, CEOs are “investing in innovation and new business models to adapt to shifting market conditions”. Concepts like Lean Startup, Scrum project management, and cross-functional teamwork are of high interest. By becoming more agile leaders, CEOs hope to keep their companies resilient and competitive – able to pivot when needed (as seen during COVID) and to continuously improve products and services through technology.

Overall, Tanzanian CEOs are no longer leaving IT to the IT department alone – they are personally educating themselves in these domains. From fortifying cyber defenses to harnessing AI, and from building data-centric teams to leading agile innovation, top executives see these competencies as crucial for securing and growing their businesses in the digital era. As one survey summed up, “Artificial intelligence and digital transformation have become central to business strategy in Tanzania” – and the country’s business captains are gearing up through knowledge to navigate this transformation successfully.

Sources:

• CEO outlook (KPMG/The Citizen) on low cyber-attack readiness and prioritization of digital transformation.
• The Citizen (PwC 2025 CEO Survey) on Tanzanian CEOs embracing AI (52% expect AI to boost profit), and identifying cyber, inflation risks.
• The Citizen on CEOs rethinking strategy and business models for growth.
• PwC Tanzania survey: majority of CEOs integrating long-term, data-informed approaches in decisions.
• Statements by Tanzanian business leaders (Vodacom MD on AI efficiency) affirming the push for AI, innovation, and data-driven strategies.